Labor sources slam Peretz's silence on major issues

Senior Labor Party sources have criticized party Chairman Amir Peretz's silence regarding the possibility that Avigdor Lieberman and his rightist Yisrael Beiteinu party could soon join the coalition government, as well as the initiative to enact fundamental changes to the system of government in Israel.

Since news of the new cooperation between Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Lieberman in the effort to change the system of government first broke Saturday night, Peretz has refrained from presenting his position on the matter.

Peretz has also thus far not responded to reports that Yisrael Beiteinu could be on its way to joining the government, which have caused a stir in the political establishment.

"Amir [Peretz]'s silence is thunderous and strange, especially regarding an issue that has thrown the nation into an uproar," said senior Labor sources. "Instead of showing leadership he is evading the issue."

"This has created the impression that he has nothing to say, that he is not a player in the political system and that he has simply lost his self confidence," they added. "This is not how a party chairman behaves."

According to the sources, Peretz's current silence is reminiscent of his failure to present a position on the issue of appointing a state commission to investigate the Lebanon war. Peretz remained silent for several days while the issue was under intense discussion among the country's leaders.

"What is so secret about his stance on changing the system of government?" asked the senior sources. "Why can't we hear from him what he thinks about Lieberman?"

Peretz's office issued a response to the criticism, saying his position on the issues will be presented to the Labor Party faction before they are reported in the media.

Sources close to Olmert have expressed satisfaction both with the cooperation between the prime minister and Lieberman as well as the possibility that his party will join the government and strengthen the coalition.

Lieberman is expected to bring his party into the coalition in a few weeks, although it is unclear which ministerial portfolio is available for him.

One possibility being raised by Olmert's aides is that the Justice Ministry will be left in the hands of Housing Minister and acting Justice Minister Meir Sheetrit, should former justice minister Haim Ramon, who is currently on trial for sexual harassment, not return to the position. That would then free up an expanded Housing Ministry portfolio for Lieberman.